All of Algoma Central Corporation’s domestic dry bulk collective agreements have been ratified and will be in force until 2023, the Canadian provider of marine transportation services said.
This includes four officer contracts represented by the Canadian Merchant Service Guild (CMSG) and unlicensed seafarer collective agreements with the Seafarer’s International Union (SIU) and UNIFOR.
As explained, the renewed agreements provide for competitive compensation packages and increased flexibility in crew utilization and scheduling. Changes were also made to provide greater security for customers and shipboard employees of Algoma.
“These new agreements mean stability to not only our valued customers but to our current and future employees. We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with the unions and appreciate their support in the success of these negotiations” Gregg Ruhl, Chief Operating Officer of Algoma, commented.
“SIU members are proud to serve on Algoma vessels. This new long term labour agreement gives our members the opportunity to plan for their families’ futures and the company confidence to invest in the industry; it’s a win-win” Jim Given, President of the SIU, said.
Algoma owns and operates the largest fleet of dry and liquid bulk carriers operating on the Great Lakes – St. Lawrence Waterway, including self-unloading dry-bulk carriers, gearless dry-bulk carriers and product tankers.
The shipping company also owns ocean self-unloading dry-bulk vessels operating in international markets and a 50% interest in NovaAlgoma, which includes a diversified portfolio of dry-bulk fleets operating internationally.